Mastitis is a common and painful condition that affects up to 25% of breastfeeding women, most often within the first six weeks postpartum.
But it can happen at any time, for me it was around 4 months with my first child.
It involves inflammation of the breast tissue, often due to milk stasis (stagnation) or infection, and can present significant physical and emotional challenges during an already vulnerable time.
And it happens VERY quickly!
There are two primary types of mastitis –
- Non-infectious mastitis, typically caused by milk stasis due to blocked ducts, tight clothing, or infrequent feeding.
- Infectious mastitis, which occurs when bacteria (commonly Staphylococcus aureus) enter through cracked nipples or skin breaks.
Risk factors
- Poor latch or feeding technique
- Infrequent or incomplete breast emptying
- Nipple damage or fissures
- Use of anti-fungal creams, your breast has a delicate balance of microbes (bacteria), this interferes with that!
- Sleep deprivation or elevated stress
- A history of previous mastitis
Recognising the Signs and Symptoms
- Localised pain, swelling, warmth, and redness in one breast
- Fever, chills, flu-like symptoms, and swollen lymph nodes
- Engorgement, firmness, or a palpable (able to feel) lump
- Fatigue and emotional distress, which may delay early/preventative treatment
Early detection and support are essential to prevent progression to abscess formation or cessation of breastfeeding.
Naturopathic Strategies for Prevention and Care
Naturopathic care focuses on the root causes of mastitis while supporting the body’s innate healing capacity. Interventions aim to improve milk flow, reduce inflammation, support immune health, and enhance emotional well-being in this very beautiful stage of motherhood 🩷
Preventative
- Effective latch and positioning Work with a lactation consultant to optimise technique. Here is some info 3 Easy Ways to Fix Your Latch (and make breastfeeding pain free!)
- Regular feeding and drainage Avoid skipping feeds, allow baby to nurse frequently.
- Gentle breast massage Especially over any blocked ducts. You can use coconut oil, or a nice natural oil such as jojoba, sweet almond, apricot kernel. I recommend not adding essential oils to the breast while feeding.
- Warm compress before feedsTo improve milk flow, use a wheat pack
- Cool compress after feeds To relieve swelling and pain.
Supportive Natural Therapies
- Cabbage leaves (cold, straight from the fridge) Effective in reducing engorgement and pain. The glucosinolates and polyphenolic compounds in the cabbage draw out the inflammation & support lymphatic drainage.
- Charcoal poultices Traditionally used to draw out infection.
- Castor oil packs Stimulate lymphatic flow and reduce inflammation.
- Herbal tincture May be used to support immune response in early infection. Monitor closely, improvement should occur within 24 hours.
- Probiotic therapy Especially if antibiotics are prescribed. Choose strains such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG or L. reuteri, which also benefit vaginal and infant gut flora. You can buy these from me HERE
- Topical probiotic Applied to the nipple to discourage bacterial colonisation. I make a cream that contains the correct stains and is 100% natural (food based) you can contact me to purchase HERE
When to Seek Medical Attention
While many cases of early mastitis respond well to natural therapies, in person assessment is vital if
- Fever exceeds 38.5°C or lasts more than 24 hours
- Pain intensifies despite doing the above at home treatments
- A lump persists or increases in size
- An abscess is suspected
If antibiotics are prescribed, continue breastfeeding and integrate the naturopathic strategies to reduce side effects and support overall recovery.
Emotional and Mental Health Considerations
The postpartum period is an intense and transformative time. Mastitis can be deeply distressing, especially of its your first time. A holistic approach includes
- Emotional support and validation reach out to a health professional for the correct advise. You can include me or the ABFA which has the gold standard information https://www.breastfeeding.asn.au
- Community connection Breastfeeding groups – in person and online, however always seek professional advice from ABFA on technique etc
- Stress modulation Deep breathing techniques
There are many resources available, here is one example 5 minute meditation - Rest and nourishment Essential to recovery = Self care and great food
Learn more
You can contact me for support via the form here on my website, or via email – raquel@nurturer.com.au
